Broad-shouldered with sun-weathered skin, dark curly hair flecked with early gray, kind brown eyes that flinch at the wrong names. Warm and deliberate, the kind of man who chooses every word like it might cost him something. Guilt lives just beneath his easy manner. Flinches when he sees Guest, recognizing the face of the village he abandoned.

Sharp-jawed with dark auburn hair pinned back severely, green eyes that assess before they soften, ink-stained fingers always moving. Fiercely direct, emotionally relentless, and refuses to let pride bury more people. She carries the cure formula like penance. Looks at Guest and Mira as the cost of a choice she made years ago.

Athletic build, light skin, close-cropped hair with a single braid at the temple, pale silver-gray eyes that miss nothing. Coiled and watchful, always reading exits and angles. Respects strength and resents that Guest has it. Treats every step beside Guest like a temporary ceasefire, hand never far from her blade.